Creating Connection Across Generations

We were thrilled to introduce our much-loved Intergenerational Program to Toowoomba this year, expanding a program that has been creating meaningful connections at our Wacol location since 2024.

Thanks to the generous support and funding from Eastern Star Foundation, Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) was able to bring together our Toowoomba participants, residents from Bupa Glenvale and rescue animals from RSPCA Toowoomba for four inspiring sessions that demonstrated the incredible impact of connection across generations.

While rescue animals provided a natural way to bring people together, this program is about so much more than spending time with animals. It created many meaningful opportunities for participants to build confidence, communication, leadership and independence in new ways, through purposeful, hands-on experiences, while helping older Australians strengthen social connection and supporting the wellbeing of rescue animals waiting for adoption.

Across four sessions, participants stepped confidently into leadership roles where they spoke confidently to the wider groups of residents, facilitated enrichment activities, conducted demonstrations of positive reinforcement training techniques and guided residents how to gently handle and pat animals. These weren't simply activities—they were opportunities for participants to apply the skills they have developed through HPHH in a real-world setting where their knowledge, encouragement and contribution genuinely mattered.

At the same time, residents shared stories of beloved pets, reflected on treasured memories and formed genuine friendships with participants. As the weeks progressed, familiar faces were greeted with warm smiles, hugs and excitement, with conversations flowing more naturally as confidence grew on both sides.

The rescue animals not only played an important role in bringing together participants and residents, but experienced meaningful outcomes too. Through positive interactions, enrichment, gentle handling and training, they benefited from valuable socialisation that supported both their wellbeing and adoptability.

One particularly special milestone came when WIN News Toowoomba joined one of the sessions to help share the story with the wider community. It was wonderful to see participant Rhiannon courageously speak about her experience alongside Bupa Glenvale resident John, Program Trainer Emily and RSPCA Toowoomba Team Leader Jerra, each sharing how this initiative is creating meaningful outcomes for people and animals alike.

Watch WIN News’ segment here.

Programs like this remind us that meaningful participation happens when people are given the opportunity to contribute, connect and belong. By bringing together different generations through shared purpose, we're not only building confidence and independence in our participants—we're strengthening community, reducing social isolation and creating lasting impact for everyone involved.

A heartfelt thank you to the Eastern Star Foundation for making this program possible, to the wonderful team at Bupa Glenvale for embracing the initiative so warmly, and to our valued partners at RSPCA Toowoomba for helping create meaningful opportunities for both hearts and paws.